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Trouble escalated on April 14 when the USS Samuel B. Roberts, a guided missile frigate, struck an Iranian mine while escorting a Kuwaiti oil tanker. The explosion caused catastrophic damage, almost sinking the ship. Fortunately, the crew's quick actions managed to save the vessel, but this incident triggered a call for revenge.
President Ronald Reagan, when informed of the incident, ordered a proportional response. This directive laid the groundwork for Operation Praying Mantis, as the U.S. Navy readied three surface attack groups to address the perceived threat posed by Iranian forces.